The Highland Village City Council recently voted down a proposed ordinance to ban smoking in city parks, recreational fields and other outdoor areas.

The ordinance was denied on the second read by a vote of 4-3.

Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Scott McDearmont, a local surgeon, was a supporter of the ban, saying, "Should we as a council do what we can to limit exposure of minors and non-smokers to second hand smoke? The answer in my mind is yes we should."

Councilmembers directed city staff to include the item for further discussion at the Nov. 10 council meeting.